Designation: B85/B85M − 14

Standard Specification for

Aluminum-Alloy Die Castings1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B85/B85M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 2.2 ASTM Standards:2

B179 Specification for Aluminum Alloys in Ingot and Mol-
1.1 This specification covers aluminum-alloy die castings of
ten Forms for Castings from All Casting Processes
all compositions. Thirteen of the most commonly die cast alloy
B275 Practice for Codification of Certain Nonferrous Metals
compositions are specified, designated as shown in Table 1.
and Alloys, Cast and Wrought
1.2 This specification is not intended for aluminum-alloy B557 Test Methods for Tension Testing Wrought and Cast
die castings used in aerospace applications. Aluminum- and Magnesium-Alloy Products
1.3 Alloy and temper designations are in accordance with B557M Test Methods for Tension Testing Wrought and Cast
ANSI H35.1/H35.1(M). The equivalent unified numbering Aluminum- and Magnesium-Alloy Products (Metric)
system alloy designations are in accordance with Practice B660 Practices for Packaging/Packing of Aluminum and
E527. Magnesium Products
B881 Terminology Relating to Aluminum- and Magnesium-
1.4 Unless the order specifies the “M” specification Alloy Products
designation, the material shall be furnished to the inch-pound B985 Practice for Sampling Aluminum Ingots, Billets, Cast-
units. ings and Finished or Semi-Finished Wrought Aluminum
1.5 For acceptance criteria for inclusion of new aluminum Products for Compositional Analysis
and aluminum alloys and their properties in this specification, D3951 Practice for Commercial Packaging
see Annex A1 and Annex A2. E8/E8M Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Ma-
terials
1.6 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch- E23 Test Methods for Notched Bar Impact Testing of Me-
pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The tallic Materials
values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Determine Conformance with Specifications
Combining values from the two systems may result in non- E34 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Aluminum and
conformance with the standard. Aluminum-Base Alloys
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the E505 Reference Radiographs for Inspection of Aluminum
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the and Magnesium Die Castings
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- E527 Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys in the
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- Unified Numbering System (UNS)
bility of regulatory requirements prior to use. E607 Test Method for Atomic Emission Spectrometric
Analysis Aluminum Alloys by the Point to Plane Tech-
2. Referenced Documents nique Nitrogen Atmosphere (Withdrawn 2011)3
E716 Practices for Sampling and Sample Preparation of
2.1 The following documents of the issue in effect on date Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys for Determination of
of order acceptance form a part of this specification to the Chemical Composition by Spectrochemical Analysis
extent referenced herein: E1251 Test Method for Analysis of Aluminum and Alumi-
num Alloys by Spark Atomic Emission Spectrometry

1 2
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B07 on Light For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Metals and Alloys and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee B07.01 on contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Aluminum Alloy Ingots and Castings. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2014. Published October 2014. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1931. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as B85/B85M – 13. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/B0085_B0085M-14. www.astm.org.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 B85/B85M − 14
TABLE 1 Chemical RequirementsA,B,C
DesignationD OthersE
AA No. (old)
UNS Si Fe Cu Mn Mg Cr Ni Zn Ti Sn Each TotalF Aluminum
(ANSI) ASTM
360.0 SG100B A03600 9.00-10.00 2.00 0.60 0.35 0.4-0.60 ... 0.50 0.50 ... 0.15 ... 0.25 Remainder
A360.0 SG100A A13600 9.00-10.00 1.30 0.60 0.35 0.40-0.60 ... 0.50 0.50 ... 0.15 ... 0.25 Remainder
380.0 SC84B A03800 7.50-9.50 2.00 3.00-4.00 0.50 0.10 ... 0.50 3.00 ... 0.35 ... 0.50 Remainder
A380.0G SC84C A13800 7.50-9.50 1.30 3.00-4.00 0.50 0.10 ... 0.50 3.00 ... 0.35 ... 0.50 Remainder
383.0G SC102A A03830 9.50-11.50 1.30 2.00-3.00 0.50 0.10 ... 0.30 3.00 ... 0.15 0.50 Remainder
384.0G SC114A A03840 10.50-12.00 1.30 3.00-4.50 0.50 0.10 ... 0.50 3.00 ... 0.35 ... 0.50 Remainder
390.0 SC174A A03900 16.00-18.00 1.30 4.00-5.00 0.10 0.45-0.65 ... ... 0.10 0.20 ... 0.10 0.20 Remainder
B390.0 SC174B A23900 16.00-18.00 1.30 4.00-5.00 0.50 0.45-0.65 ... 0.10 1.50 0.20† ... 0.10 0.20 Remainder
392.0 S19 A03920 18.00-20.00 1.50 0.40-0.80 0.20-0.60 0.80-1.20 ... 0.50 0.50 0.20 0.30 0.15 0.50 Remainder
413.0 S12B A04130 11.00-13.00 2.00 1.00 0.35 0.10 ... 0.50 0.50 ... 0.15 ... 0.25 Remainder
A413.0 S12A A14130 11.00-13.00 1.30 1.00 0.35 0.10 ... 0.50 0.50 ... 0.15 ... 0.25 Remainder
C443.0 S5C A34430 4.50-6.00 2.00 0.60 0.35 0.10 ... 0.50 0.50 ... 0.15 ... 0.25 Remainder
518.0 G8A A05180 0.35 1.80 0.25 0.35 7.50-8.50 ... 0.15 0.15 ... 0.15 ... 0.25 Remainder
† Corrected editorially in August 2013.
A
Analysis shall ordinarily be made only for the elements mentioned in this table. If, however, the presence of other elements is suspected, or indicated in the course of
routine analysis, further analysis shall be made to determine that the total of these other elements are not present in excess of specified limits.
B
For purposes of acceptance and rejection, the observed value or calculated value obtained from analysis should be rounded off to the nearest unit in the last right-hand
place of figures, used in expressing the specified limit, in accordance with the rounding procedure prescribed in Section 3 of Practice E29.
C
Limits are in percent maximum unless shown otherwise.
D
Alloys 360.0, 380.0, 413.0, C443.0 and 518.0 are suitable for the production of die casting by either the hot-chamber or the cold-chamber process. Die castings of alloys
A360.0, A380.0, 383.0, 384.0 and A413.0 may be made only in cold-chamber machines. ASTM designations were established in accordance with Practice B275. ANSI
designations were established in accordance with ANSI H35.1/H35.1 (M). UNS designations were established in accordance with Practice E527.
E
”Others” includes listed elements for which no specific limit is shown as well as unlisted metallic elements. The producer may analyze samples for trace elements not
specified in the registration or specification. However, such analysis is not required and may not cover all metallic “other” elements. Should any analysis by the producer
or the purchaser establish that the aggregate of several “others” elements exceeds the limit of the “Total” the material shall be considered non-conforming.
F
The sum of those “others” metallic elements 0.010 percent or more, each expressed to the second decimal before determining the sum.
G
With respect to mechanical properties, alloys A380.0, 383.0 and 384.0 are substantially interchangeable.

IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International P-4A-5-09 Flatness Requirements: Precision Tolerances
System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System P-4A-6-09 Cored Holes for Cut Threads: Precision Toler-
2.3 AMS Standard: ances
AMS-STD-184 Identification Marking of Aluminum, Mag- P-4A-7-09 Cored Holes for Formed Threads: Precision Tol-
nesium and Titanium4 erances
2.4 ANSI Standard: S/P-4-9-09 Machining Stock Allowances (Standard and Pre-
H35.1/H35.1(M)-2006 American National Standard Alloy cision) Engineering and Design: Additional Specification
and Temper Designation Systems for Aluminum5 Guidelines
2.5 NADCA Product Specification Standards for Die Cast- G-6-1-09 Pressure Tightness in Die Cast Parts
ings:6 G-6-2-09 Fillets, Ribs and Corners in Die cast Parts (1 of 2)
Engineering and Design: Coordinate Dimensioning G-6-3-09 Fillets, Ribs and Corners in Die cast Parts (2 of 2)
S-4A-1-09 Linear Dimensions: Standard Tolerances G-6-4-09 Ejector Pins, Pin Marks and Pin Flash
S-4A-2-09 Parting Line: Standard Tolerances G-6-5-09 Casting Flash removal
S-4A-3-09 Moving Die Components (MDC): Standard
G-6-6-09 Surface Finish, As Cast
Tolerances
G-6-7-09 Die Cast Lettering and Ornamentation
S-4A-4-09 Draft Requirements: Standard Tolerances
S-4A-5-09 Flatness Requirements: Standard Tolerances 2.6 Federal Standard:
S-4A-6-09 Cored Holes for Cut Threads: Standard Toler- Fed. Std. No. 123 Marking for Shipment (Civil Agencies)7
ances 2.7 Military Standard:
S-4A-8-09 Cored Holes for Pipe Threads: Standard Toler- MIL-STD-129 Marking for Shipment and Storage (Military
ances Agencies)7
P-4A-1-09 Linear Dimensions: Precision Tolerances
P-4A-2-09 Parting Line: Precision Tolerances 2.8 Other Standards:8
P-4A-3-09 Moving Die Components (MDC): Precision Tol- EN 14242 Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys – Chemical
erances Analysis – inductively Coupled plasms Optical Emission
P-4A-4-09 Draft Requirements: Precision Tolerances Spectral Analysis

4
Available from SAE AEROSPACE, 400 Commonwealth Dr., Warrendale, PA
7
15096-0001, http://aerospace.sae.org. Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4,
5
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098, http://
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org. www.dodssp.daps.mil.
6 8
Available from North American Die Casting Association (NADCA), 241 Available from European Committee for Standardization (CEN), 36 rue de
Holbrook Dr Wheeling, Illinois 60090-5809, http://www.diecasting.org/ Stassart, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium, http://www.cenorm.be.

2
 B85/B85M − 14
3. Terminology chemical analysis can be taken and adjusted to conform to
3.1 Definitions—Refer to Terminology B881 for definitions Table 1 prior to pouring any castings.
of product terms used in this specification. 6. Manufacture
4. Ordering Information 6.1 The responsibility of furnishing die castings that can be
laid out and machined to the final dimensions within the
4.1 Orders for material under this specification shall include permissible variations specified, as shown on the blueprints or
the following information: drawings, shall rest with the producer, except when the die is
4.1.1 This specification designation (which includes the furnished by the purchaser.
number, the year, and the revision letter, if applicable),
NOTE 1—For inch-pound application, specify Specification B85 and for 7. Quality Assurance
metric application specify Specification B85M. Do not mix units. 7.1 Responsibility for Inspection—When specified in the
4.1.2 The quantity in either pieces or pounds [kilograms], contract or purchase order, the producer or supplier is respon-
4.1.3 Part name and number, sible for the performance of all inspection and test require-
4.1.4 Alloy (see Section 8 and Table 1), and ments specified herein. Except as otherwise specified in the
4.1.5 Drawing of die casting, when required, giving all contract or order, the producer or supplier may use his own or
necessary dimensions and showing latest revisions and allow- any other suitable facilities for the performance of the inspec-
ances for linear dimensions (10.2), parting lines (10.3), moving tion and test requirements specified herein, unless disapproved
die components (10.4), draft (10.5), flatness (10.6), cored hole by the purchaser. The purchaser shall have the right to perform
threads (10.7 – 10.9), and machining stock (10.10). Location of any of the inspections and tests set forth in this specification.
ejector pin marks or parting lines shall be at the option of the Quality assurance standards shall be agreed upon between the
producer; unless specifically designated on the drawing. producer or supplier and purchaser at the time a contract or
4.2 Additional tests, options and special inspection require- order is placed.
ments as provided below should be justified only on the basis 7.2 Lot Definition—An inspection lot shall be defined as
of need. These shall be specified in the contract or purchase follows:
order, as additional procedures and extended delivery time may 7.2.1 An inspection lot shall consist of the production from
be involved. each die or compound die on each machine for each 24 h
4.2.1 Whether chemical analysis reports are required (8.3 during the first week of normal operation and the production
and Table 1), for each 48 h thereafter of normal operation. Any significant
4.2.2 Whether additional quality assurance requirements are change in the machine, composition, die or continuity of
required (7.1), operation shall be considered as the start of a new lot. Die
4.2.3 Whether special proof tests or mechanical property castings inspected by this method shall be so marked or
tests are required (Section 9), handled during the finishing operations as not to lose their
4.2.4 Whether there are additional general quality require- identity.
ments for internal soundness (11.2), pressure tightness (11.3), 7.2.2 Each die casting of a randomly selected sample shall
fillets, ribs and corners (11.4), ejector pins, pin marks, pin flash be examined to determine conformance to the requirements
and flash removal (11.5), casting flash removal (11.6), surface with respect to general quality, dimensions, and identification
finish (11.7), die cast lettering and ornamentation (11.8) or marking. The producer or supplier may use a system of
workmanship (11.10), statistical quality control for such examinations.
4.2.5 Whether source inspection is required (Section 12), 7.3 All testing shall be performed in accordance to appli-
4.2.6 Whether certification is required (Section 14), cable ASTM test methods.
4.2.7 Marking for identification (Section 15), and
4.2.8 Whether marking in accordance with Fed. Std. 123 or 8. Chemical Composition
ASTM D3951 (16.2) or MIL-STD-129 applies (16.2). 8.1 The product shall conform to the requirements as to
4.2.9 Whether Practices B660 applies and, if so, the levels chemical composition prescribed in Table 1. Conformance
of preservation, packaging and packing required (16.3), shall be determined by the producer by analyzing samples
taken at the time castings are poured in accordance with
5. Materials Practice E716 and analyzed in accordance with Test Methods
5.1 Unless otherwise specified, only aluminum alloy con- E34, E607, or E1251, or EN 14242. If the producer has
forming to the requirements of Specification B179 or produc- determined the chemical composition of the metal during the
er’s foundry scrap (identified as being made from alloy course of manufacture, he shall not be required to sample and
conforming to Specification B179) shall be used in the remelt- analyze the finished product.
ing furnace from which molten metal is taken for pouring 8.1.1 A sample for determination of chemical composition
directly into castings. Additions of small amounts of modifiers shall be taken to represent one of the following:
and grain refining elements or alloys are permitted. 8.1.2 For production runs of less than 8 h, one sample from
5.1.1 Pure materials, recycled materials, and master alloys each die or compound die on each machine.
and material not conforming to Specification B179 may be 8.1.3 For production runs of more than 8 hours, one sample
used to make alloys conforming to this specification, provided from each die or compound die on each machine every 8 h.

3
 B85/B85M − 14
8.2 If it becomes necessary to analyze castings for confor- 10.5 Draft—Unless otherwise specified on the drawing or in
mance to chemical composition limits, the method used to the contract or purchase order, draft tolerance dimensions shall
sample castings for the determination of chemical composition conform to NADCA Product Specification Standard S-4A-4-
shall be in accordance with Practice B985. Analysis shall be 09, Standard Tolerances, or by agreement between the pro-
performed in accordance with Practice E716, Test Methods ducer and the supplier, P-4A-4-09, Precision Tolerances.
E34, E607, or E1251, or EN 14242 (ICP method). 10.6 Flatness—Unless otherwise specified on the drawing
8.3 When a chemical analysis is required with a shipment, it or in the contract or purchase order, flatness dimensional
shall be called for in the contract or purchase order. tolerances shall conform to NADCA Product Specification
Standard S-4A-5-09, Standard Tolerances, or by agreement
8.4 If the producer’s or supplier’s method of composition
between the producer and the supplier, P-4A-5-09, Precision
control is acceptable, sampling for chemical analysis may be
Tolerances.
waived at the discretion of the purchaser.
10.7 Cored Holes for Cut Threads—Unless otherwise speci-
8.5 By agreement, an appropriate spectrographic sample
fied on the drawing or in the contract or purchase order, the
may be prepared at time of manufacture.
dimensional tolerances for cored holes for cut threads shall
conform to NADCA Product Specification Standard S-4A-6-
9. Mechanical Properties
09, Standard Tolerances, or by agreement between the pro-
9.1 Unless specified in the contract or purchase order or ducer and the supplier, P-4A-6-09, Precision Tolerances.
specifically guaranteed by the manufacturer, acceptance of die 10.8 Cored Holes for Pipe Threads—Unless otherwise
castings under these specifications shall not depend on me- specified on the drawing or in the contract or purchase order,
chanical properties determined by tension or impact tests. the dimensional tolerances for cored holes for cut threads shall
Table X2.1 [Table X2.2] shows typical mechanical properties conform to NADCA Product Specification Standard S-4A-8-
that may be expected of test specimens when cast in a separate 09.
tensile test bar die and that conform to the chemical composi-
tion specified. When tension or impact tests are made, the 10.9 Cored Holes for Formed Threads—Unless otherwise
tension test specimen shown in Fig. 18 of Test Methods specified on the drawing or in the contract or purchase order,
E8/E8M or Fig. 13 of Test Methods B557 or B557M, and the the dimensional tolerances for cored holes for cut threads shall
Type ’A’ Charpy Impact Test Specimen with the V notch cast conform to NADCA Product Specification Standard P-4A-7-
into the specimen shown in Fig. 1 of Test Methods E23 shall be 09.
used. 10.10 Machining Stock—Unless otherwise specified on the
9.2 When specified in the contract or purchase order, die drawing or in the contract or purchase order, allowances for
castings shall withstand proof tests without failure as defined machining stock shall conform to the standard tolerances
by agreement between the purchaser and the producer or detailed in NADCA Product Specification Standard S/P-4-9-
supplier. 09, or by agreement between the producer and the supplier, the
precision tolerances shown in S/P-4-9-09.
10. Dimensions, Mass, and Permissible Variations 10.11 Dimensional tolerance deviations waived by the pur-
10.1 Permissible variations in dimensions shall be within chaser shall be confirmed in writing to the producer or supplier.
the limits specified on the drawings or in the contract or
purchase order. 11. General Quality
10.2 Linear Dimensions—Unless otherwise specified on the 11.1 Imperfections inherent in die castings shall not be
drawing or in the contract or purchase order, linear dimension cause for rejection provided it is demonstrated that the die
tolerances shall conform to NADCA Product Specification castings are in accordance with the requirements and standards
Standard S-4A-1-09, Standard Tolerances, or by agreement agreed upon.
between the producer and the supplier, P-4A-1-09, Precision 11.2 Internal Soundness—When specified, the soundness of
Tolerances. die castings shall conform to standards or requirements agreed
10.3 Parting Lines—Unless otherwise specified on the upon between the producer or supplier and the purchaser. The
drawing or in the contract or purchase order, parting line number and extent of imperfections shall not exceed those
dimension tolerances shall conform to NADCA Product Speci- specified by the purchaser. The standards or requirements may
fication Standard S-4A-2-09, Standard Tolerances, or by agree- consist of radiographs in accordance with Reference Radio-
ment between the producer and the supplier, P-4A-2-09, graphs E505, photographs or sectioned die castings.
Precision Tolerances. 11.3 Pressure Tightness—When specified in the contract or
10.4 Moving Die Components—Unless otherwise specified purchase order, the pressure tightness of die castings shall
on the drawing or in the contract or purchase order, moving die conform to standards agreed upon between the purchaser and
component dimension tolerances shall conform to NADCA the producer or supplier, or as prescribed in NADCA Product
Product Specification Standard S-4A-3-09, Standard Specification Standards for Die Castings G-6-1-09.
Tolerances, or by agreement between the producer and the 11.4 Fillets, Ribs and Corners—Unless otherwise specified
supplier, P-4A-3-09, Precision Tolerances. in the contract or purchase order fillets, ribs and corners shall

4
 B85/B85M − 14
conform to NADCA Product Specification Standards for Die ment of the rejected castings to the purchaser. As much of the
Castings G-6-2-09 and G-6-3-09. rejected original material as possible shall be returned to the
producer or supplier.
11.5 Ejector Pins, Pin Marks, Pin Flash, and Flash
Removal—Unless otherwise specified in the contract or pur-
14. Certification
chase order ejector pins, pin marks, pin flash, and flash removal
shall conform to NADCA Product Specification Standards for 14.1 The producer or supplier shall, when called for in the
Die Castings G-6-4-09 and G-6-5-09. contract or purchase order, furnish to the purchaser a certificate
of inspection stating that each lot has been sampled, tested, and
11.6 Casting Flash Removal—Unless otherwise specified in
inspected in accordance with this specification, and has been
the contract or purchase order casting flash removal shall
found to meet the requirements specified.
conform to NADCA Product Specification Standards for Die
Castings G-6-5-09.
15. Product Marking
11.7 Surface Finish—When specified in the contract or
15.1 Unless otherwise specified, each casting shall be
purchase order the as-cast surface finish required shall conform
marked with the applicable drawing or part number. The
to standards agreed upon between the purchaser and the
marking shall consist of raised Arabic numerals, and when
producer or supplier, or as prescribed in NADCA Product
applicable capital letters, cast integral. The location of the
Specification Standards for Die Castings G-6-6-09.
identification marking shall be as specified on the applicable
11.8 Die Cast Lettering and Ornamentation—Unless other- drawing. When the location is not specified on the drawing, the
wise specified in the contract or purchase order, die cast drawing/part number shall be placed in a location mutually
lettering and ornamentation shall conform to NADCA Product agreeable to the purchaser and producer. Government applica-
Specification Standards for Die Castings G-6-7-09. tions shall be marked in accordance with AMS-STD-184.
11.9 Machining Stock Allowances—Unless otherwise speci-
16. Packaging and Package Marking
fied in the contract or purchase order, die cast machining stock
allowances shall conform to NADCA Product Specification 16.1 Packaging—Unless otherwise specified, the die cast-
Standards for Die Castings standard allowances shown in ings shall be packaged to provide adequate protection during
S/P-4-9-09. normal handling and transportation. Each package shall con-
tain only one type of item unless otherwise agreed upon. The
11.10 Workmanship—Die castings shall be of uniform type of packaging and gross weight of containers shall, unless
quality, free of injurious discontinuities that will adversely otherwise agreed upon, be at the producer’s discretion, pro-
affect their serviceability. vided they are such as to ensure acceptance by common or
other carriers for safe transportation.
12. Source Inspection
16.2 Marking—Each shipping container shall be legibly
12.1 If the purchaser elects to make an inspection of the marked with the purchase order number, gross and net weights,
casting at the producer’s works, it shall be so stated in the and the supplier’s name or trademark. Marking for shipment
contract or order. shall be in accordance with Fed. Std. No. 123 or Practice
12.2 If the purchaser elects to have inspection made at the D3951 for civil agencies and MIL-STD-129 for Military
producer’s works, the producer shall afford the inspector all agencies.
reasonable facilities to satisfy him that the material is being 16.3 Preservation—Material intended for prolonged storage
furnished in accordance with this specification. All tests and in unheated locations shall be adequately packed and protected
inspection shall be so conducted as not to interfere unneces- to avoid deterioration and damage. When specified in the
sarily with the operation of the works. contract or purchase order, material shall be preserved,
packaged, and packed in accordance with the requirements of
13. Rejection and Retest Practices B660. The applicable levels shall be as specified in
13.1 When one or more samples, depending on the ap- the contract or order.
proved sampling plan, fail to meet the requirements of this
specification, the represented lot is subject to rejection except 17. Characteristics of Die Casting Alloys
as otherwise provided in 13.2. 17.1 Table X1.1 shows certain casting and other outstanding
13.2 Lots rejected for failure to meet the requirements of characteristics which are usually considered in selecting a
this specification may be resubmitted for test, provided: die-casting alloy for a specific application. The characteristics
are rated from (1) to (5), (1) being the best and (5) being the
13.2.1 The producer has removed the nonconforming mate-
least desirable for that attribute. In considering these ratings, it
rial or the producer has reworked the rejected lot as necessary
should be noted that all the alloys have sufficiently good
to correct the deficiencies.
characteristics to be accepted by users and producers of die
13.3 Individual castings that show injurious imperfections castings. Hence the rating for each characteristic is a relative
during subsequent manufacturing operations may be rejected. measure of that attribute compared to the same attribute in
The producer or supplier shall be responsible only for replace- another alloy.

5
 B85/B85M − 14
18. Keywords
18.1 aluminum; die casting

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. BASIS FOR INCLUSION OF PROPERTY LIMITS

A1.1 Limits are established at a level at which a statistical more than ten data from a given lot. All tests are performed in
evaluation of the data indicates that 99 % of the population accordance with the appropriate ASTM test methods. For
obtained from all standard material meets the limit with 95 % informational purposes, refer to “Statistical Aspects of Me-
confidence. For the products described, mechanical property chanical Property Assurance” in the Related Material section of
limits for the respective size ranges are based on the analyses the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 02.02.
of at least 100 data from standard production material with no

A2. ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA FOR INCLUSION OF NEW ALUMINUM AND ALUMINUM ALLOYS IN THIS SPECIFICA-
TION

A2.1 Prior to acceptance for inclusion in this specification, A2.2.5 For codification purposes, an alloying element is any
the composition of cast aluminum or aluminum alloy shall be element intentionally added for any purpose other than grain
registered in accordance with ANSI H35.1/H35.1(M). The refinement and for which minimum and maximum limits are
Aluminum Association holds the Secretariat of ANSI H35 specified. Unalloyed aluminum contains a minimum of
Committee and administers the criteria and procedures for 99.00 % aluminum.
registration. A2.2.6 Standard limits for alloying elements and impurities
are expressed to the following decimal places:
A2.2 If it is documented that the Aluminum Association
Less than 0.001 % 0.000X
could not or would not register a given composition, an 0.001 to but less than 0.01 % 0.00X
alternative procedure and the criteria for acceptance shall be as 0.01 to but less than 0.10 %
follows: Unalloyed aluminum made by a refining process 0.0XX
Alloys and unalloyed aluminum not made by a refining
process 0.0X
A2.2.1 The designation submitted for inclusion does not 0.10 through 0.55 % 0.XX
utilize the same designation system as described in ANSI (It is customary to express limits of 0.30 through 0.55 % as
H35.1/H35.1(M). A designation not in conflict with other 0.X0 or 0.X5)
Over 0.55 % 0.X, X.X, etc.
designation systems or a trade name is acceptable. (Except that combined Si + Fe limits for 99.00 % minimum
aluminum must be expressed as 0.XX or 1.XX)
A2.2.2 The aluminum or aluminum alloy has been offered
for sale in commercial quantities within the prior twelve A2.2.7 Standard limits for alloying elements and impurities
months to at least three identifiable users. are expressed in the following sequence: Silicon; Iron; Copper;
Manganese; Magnesium; Chromium; Nickel; Zinc; Titanium;
A2.2.3 The complete chemical composition limits are sub- (Note A2.1); Other Elements, Each; Other Elements, Total;
mitted. Aluminum (Note A2.2).
A2.2.4 The composition is, in the judgment of the respon- NOTE A2.1—Additional specified elements having limits are inserted in
alphabetical order of their chemical symbols between Titanium and other
sible subcommittee, significantly different from that of any Elements, Each, or are specified in footnotes.
other aluminum or aluminum alloy already in this specifica- NOTE A2.2—Aluminum is specified as minimumfor unalloyed alumi-
tion. num and as aremainder for aluminum alloys.

6
 B85/B85M − 14
APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. CHARACTERISTICS

X1.1 Table X1.1 shows certain casting and other outstand-

ing characteristics, which are usually considered in selecting a
die casting alloy for a specific application.

TABLE X1.1 Die Casting and Other Characteristics – (Inch-Pound Units) – (SI Units) – [Metric]
NOTE 1—Rating System—The various alloys are rated 1 to 5 according to the positive to negative qualities in the listed categories. A rating of 1 gives
the best performance, 5 the poorest performance. No one alloy is best in all categories. A rating of 5 in any one or more categories does not rule an alloy
out of commercial usefulness if its other attributes are especially favorable. However, ratings of 5 may present manufacturing difficulties.
Designation Die Casting Characteristics Other CharacteristicsB
Strength
Approxi- Chemical at Ele-
Resis- Resist-
UNS A mate Melt- Die Fill- Anti-Sol- Anodizing Oxide vated
AA No. (old) tance Pressure ance to Machin- Polish- Electro-
ing Temper- ing Ca- dering to (Appear- Coating Tempera-
(ANSI)A ASTMA to Hot Tightness Corro- ingH ingI platingJ
ature pacityE the DieF ance)K (Protec- turesC
CrackingD sionG
Range,° F [°C] tion)L
360.0 SG100B A03600 1035–1105 [557-596] 1 2 3 2 2 3 3 2 3 3 1
A360.0 SG100A A13600 1035–1105 [557–596] 1 2 3 2 2 3 3 2 3 3 1
380.0 SC84B A03800 1000–1100 [538-593] 2 2 2 1 4 3 3 1 3 4 3
A380.0 SC84A A13800 1000–1100 [538-593] 2 2 2 1 4 3 3 1 3 4 3
383.0 SC102A A03830 960–1080 [516-582] 1 2 1 2 3 2 3 1 3 4 2
384.0 SC114A A03840 960–1080 [516-582] 2 2 1 2 5 3 3 2 4 5 2
390.0 SC174A A03900 945–1200 [507-649] 4 4 1 2 3 5 5 3 5 5 3
B390.0 SC174B A23900 950–1200 [510-649] 4 4 1 2 3 5 5 3 5 5 3
392.0 S19 A03920 1025–1245 [552-674] 4 3 1 2 2 5 5 3 5 5 3
413.0 S12B A04130 1065–1080 [574-582] 1 1 1 1 2 4 5 3 5 3 3
A413.0 S12A A14130 1065–1080 [574-582] 1 1 1 1 2 4 5 3 5 3 3
C443.0 S5C A34430 1065–1170 [574-632] 3 3 4 4 2 5 4 2 2 2 5
518.0 G8A A05180 995–1150 [535-621] 5 5 5 5 1 1 1 5 1 1 4
A
ASTM designations were established in accordance with Practice B275. ANSI designations were established in accordance with ANSI H35.1/H35.1(M). UNS
designations were established in accordance with Practice E527.
B
Die castings are not usually solution heat treated. Low temperature aging treatments may be used for stress relief or dimensional stability. Die castings are not generally
gas or arc welded or brazed.
C
Rating based on tensile and yield strengths at temperature up to 500°F (260°C), after prolonged heating at testing temperature.
D
Ability of alloy to withstand stresses from contraction while cooling through hot-short or brittle temperature range.
E
Ability of molten alloy to flow readily in die and fill thin sections.
F
Ability of molten alloy to flow without sticking to the die surfaces. Ratings given for antisoldering are based on nominal iron compositions of approximately 1.
G
Based on resistance of alloy in standard type salt spray test.
H
Composite rating based on ease of cutting, chip characteristics, quality of finish and tool life.
I
Composite rating based on ease and speed of polishing and quality of finish provided by typical polishing procedure.
J
Ability of the alloy to take and hold an electroplate applied by present standard methods.
K
Rated on lightness of color, brightness and uniformity of clear anodized coating applied in sulphuric acid electrolyte. Generally aluminum die castings are unsuitable for
light color anodizing where pleasing appearance is required.
L
Rated on combined resistance of coating and base alloy to corrosion.

7
 B85/B85M − 14

X2. MECHANICAL PROPERTIES

X2.1 The data in Table X2.1 [Table X2.2] do not constitute that test bars made in a different machine in a different die have
a part of this specification because the data only indicates no correlation with the die casting other than a common
mechanical properties that may be expected of test specimens chemical composition. It should be thoroughly understood that
when cast in a separate tensile test bar die and that conform to the data in Table X2.1 [Table X2.2] represent die-cast test
the chemical composition specified. Different machines and specimens and not specimens cut from commercial die-cast
dies continue to be necessary for die castings and test bars. parts. For this reason, it is considered that the only practical
Comparison between static breakdown or proof tests and the method for mechanical property control is proof testing the
mechanical properties of separately die cast test bars will show whole die casting.

TABLE X2.1 Typical Mechanical Properties Test Specimens (Inch-Pound Units)

NOTE 1—Each value for tensile strength and yield strength shall be rounded to the nearest 0.1 ksi and each value for elongation shall be rounded to
the nearest 0.5 %, both in accordance with the rounding method of Practice E29.
Fatigue Strength
Alloy Yield Strength Shear (R. R. Moore
Tensile Elongation in
UNSA (0.2 % Offset), Strength, Specimen),
Strength, ksi 2 in., %
ANSIA ASTMA ksi ksi 500,000,000
cycles, ksi
360.0 SG100B A03600 44 25 2.5 28 20
A360.0 SG100A A13600 46 24 3.5 26 18
380.0 SC84B A03800 46 23 2.5 28 20
A380.0 SC84A A13800 47 23 3.5 27 20
383.0 SC102A A03830 45 22 3.5 ... ...
384.0 SC114A A03840 48 24 2.5 29 20
390.0 SC174A A03900 40.5 35.0 <1 ... ...
B390.0 SC174B A23900 40.5 35.0 <1 ... ...
392.0 S19 A03920 42.0 39.0 <1 ... ...
413.0 S12B A04130 43 21 2.5 25 19
A413.0 S12A A14130 42 19 3.5 25 19
C443.0 S5C A34430 33 14 9.0 19 17
518.0 G8A A05180 45 28 5.0 29 20
A
ASTM designations were established in accordance with Practice B275. ANSI designations were established in accordance with ANSI H35.1/H35.1(M). UNS
designations were established in accordance with Practice E527.

8
 B85/B85M − 14
TABLE X2.2 Typical Mechanical Properties Test Specimens (SI Units) – [Metric]
NOTE 1—Each value for tensile strength and yield strength shall be rounded to the nearest 1 MPa and each value for elongation shall be rounded to
the nearest 0.5 %, both in accordance with the rounding method of Practice E29.
Fatigue Strength
Alloy Yield Strength Elongation in Shear (R. R. Moore
A Tensile Strength,
UNS (0.2 % Offset), ln 5D Strength, Specimen),
MPaB
ANSIC ASTMA MPaB mm, % MPaB 500,000,000
cycles MPaB
360.0 SG100B A03600 305 170 2.5 190 140
A360.0 SG100A A13600 315 165 3.5 180 125
380.0 SC84B A03800 315 160 2.5 190 140
A380.0 SC84A A13800 325 160 3.5 185 140
383.0 SC102A A03830 310 150 3.5 ... ...
384.0 SC114A A03840 330 165 2.5 200 140
390.0 SC174A A03900 280 240 <1 ... ...
B390.0 SC174B A23900 280 240 <1 ... ...
392.0 S19 A03920 290 270 <1 ... ...
413.0 S12B A04130 295 145 2.5 170 130
A413.0 S12A A14130 290 130 3.5 170 130
C443.0 S5C A34430 230 95 8.0 130 130
518.0 G8A A05180 310 190 4.0 200 140
A
ASTM designations were established in accordance with Practice B275. ANSI designations were established in accordance with ANSI H35.1/H35.1(M). UNS
designations were established in accordance with Practice E527.
B
Guidelines for metric conversion from the “Tempers for Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys, Metric Edition” (Tan Sheets) Appendix A, were used to convert the tensile and
yield values to SI units.
C
See Appendix X3 for explanation of SI unit MPa.

X3. METRIC EQUIVALENTS

X3.1 The SI unit for strength properties (MPa) is in accor- for pressure or stress is the newton per square metre (N/m2),
dance with the International System of Units (SI). (IEEE/ which has been named the pascal (Pa) by the General Confer-
ASTM SI 10). The derived SI unit for force is the newton (N), ence on Weights and Measures. Since 1 ksi = 6 894 757 Pa the
which is defined as that force which when applied to a body metric equivalents are expressed as megapascal (MPa), which
having a mass of one kilogram gives it an acceleration of one is the same as MN/m2 and N/mm2.
metre per second squared (N = kg·m/s2). The derived SI unit

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee B07 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(B85/B85M –13) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Oct. 1, 2014.)

(1) Reference to Practice B985 added to subsections 2.2 and (2) Subsection 8.3 deleted.
8.2. (3) Subsections 8.4, 8.4.1, and 8.4.2 moved into subsection 8.1.

Committee B07 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(B85/B85M –10ε1) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Oct. 15, 2013.)

(1) B390.0 properties revised in Tables X2.1 and X2.2.

9
 B85/B85M − 14
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, Tel: (978) 646-2600; http://www.copyright.com/

10